To those who wrote and wished me a safe return and happy holidays, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I wish I could write a letter to all of you thanking you individually. If I did, I would spent the rest of my time here writing letters! You should have seen the look on my face when I came home and saw all of those letters from everyone. It reminds me of why I am here and why I do what I do. It also makes me realize how many people really do care about the military service members serving overseas.

As you know, I was born and grew up here in Grafton where I went to school. I had wonderful teachers like Barbara Fontecchio, Maureen Cimoch, James Pignataro, and Betsy Langas, who molded me into the person I am today. I went to Grafton High School where I played football and graduated in 1999. I then went to college and joined the Marine Corps Infantry Reserve unit in Chicopee. I am now here in Camp Fallujah, Iraq. I also have a beautiful wife and daughter, as you know.

Unfortunately, people back home do not get the good news that is coming out of Iraq. The media only reports on what they think the public wants to know. I donít want to say anything bad about the media or politicians so I wonít. I will say a little about what we are doing here. Despite what you here (sic), everyone is very friendly. Schools are being built and hospitals as well. As I write this, the people in Iraq are voting on the president. So whatever the original reason was for why we came over here, we are helping the people of this country. American men and women are dying here so children of Iraq can grow in a free world that isnít dictated by one manís greed. Yes, the people of Iraq want us here. (Itals added -- Ed.)

Once again, thank you for your prayers, best wishes, and kind words. Without them my job would be more difficult. I also want to take the time to thank all my teachers from kindergarten through senior year of high school. Without you I would not be the person I am today. Thank you, and God willing, I will be joining you all in our little town shortly.

Sincerely,

Lance Corporal Zachary Webber, USMC

p.s. Remember me when youíre in a snow storm. I would take a snow storm over a sand storm any day of the week!